ABS-CBN Corp. is banking on a packed entertainment lineup led by Coco Martin, BINI and new Star Cinema releases to revive revenues after a weak first quarter hit by softer advertising demand and the absence of blockbuster events.
The media group posted a consolidated net loss of P813 million as revenues fell 21 percent to P3.33 billion, dragged mainly by weaker cable TV, broadband and advertising revenues.
The first quarter also lacked major revenue drivers seen a year earlier, including BINI’s sold-out Philippine Arena concert and the strong box office performance of “My Love Will Make You Disappear.”
Content production and distribution revenues dropped 13 percent to P2.76 billion as advertising spending slowed following last year’s election-driven surge and broader consumer sentiment weakened amid global economic uncertainty.
Management however expects revenues to improve significantly in the coming quarters as Coco Martin returns to primetime in June, Star Cinema rolls out new releases and BINI launches its world tour following its high-profile Coachella appearance in April.
Cost cuts cushion the decline
ABS-CBN continued tightening expenses as consolidated operating costs fell 12 percent, or P568 million, to P4.06 billion during the quarter.
The company also reduced general and administrative and employee-related costs by P136 million as restructuring efforts continued.
Operating expenses in the content production and distribution business fell 5 percent to P160 million and are expected to remain under control through the rest of the year.
Recovery hinges on content momentum
ABS-CBN is now leaning heavily on its entertainment pipeline, live events and digital reach to rebuild advertising momentum and audience engagement after a softer start to 2026.
The company’s recovery strategy increasingly depends on whether major content releases and BINI’s growing global profile can translate into stronger advertising and consumer spending in the months ahead.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
